"Pride has always been political. At the same time that hate-movements against 2SLGBTQ+ people are on the rise, so too are hate-movements growing against Jewish, Muslim, immigrant, Indigenous, and racialized communities. It is more important than ever for us to recognize the interconnection of these struggles and to work in solidarity to fight hate, violence, and oppression.
People across Canada are experiencing overwhelming heartbreak at the destruction and death perpetrated by Netanyahu’s government in Gaza – a campaign of violence that the ICJ has suggested plausibly constitutes a genocide. It is perfectly legitimate, legal, and ethical to take a position in support of a permanent ceasefire, immediate release of all hostages, increased access to humanitarian aid, and more accessible pathways for refugees. It is perfectly legitimate, legal, and ethical to engage in peaceful protest in order to pressure Canada to advance these objectives.
People with platforms and power have a duty to stand with the community instead of leveraging their support as a tool of control and punishment. Allyship should not be conditional. I am so proud that our leader, Jagmeet Singh, understands this.
It is in this spirit, that I stand with the 2SLGBTQ+ community and Capital Pride and encourage others not to turn their backs on the most important national event celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ human rights and freedoms."